This Easy Chinese BBQ Pork is a sweet and tasty dish made with tender pork marinated in a mix of soy sauce, honey, and spices. It’s perfect for beginners!
The best part? It makes your kitchen smell amazing as it cooks! I love serving it with rice and veggies. It’s a meal that both kids and adults enjoy. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Loin: These cuts are great for BBQ pork because they stay juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, tenderloin will work too, but keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying it out.
Hoisin Sauce: This sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor. You can substitute it with teriyaki sauce or make a quick DIY version with soy sauce, sugar, and a bit of sesame oil.
Chinese Shaoxing Wine: It’s an essential ingredient that adds depth. If you don’t have it, dry sherry or even rice vinegar can work as a substitute, though they will change the flavor slightly.
Five-Spice Powder: This mix gives a unique taste. If unavailable, a combo of cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper can create a similar warm flavor profile.
How Do You Marinate the Pork for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating pork properly is key to tasty BBQ pork! Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Coat the pork strips thoroughly in the marinade. I often use a zip-top bag for easy mixing!
- Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours—or ideally overnight. This makes a big difference in flavor.
Remember, the longer the pork sits in the marinade, the more flavor it will absorb! Plan ahead for the best results.
Easy Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder or pork loin (boneless), cut into long strips
For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Chinese Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp five-spice powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red food coloring (optional, for traditional color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to cook. Plus, you’ll want to marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. So plan ahead, and you’ll have delicious BBQ pork ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, sugar, five-spice powder, minced garlic, and red food coloring (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take your pork strips and place them in the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. For best results, cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better to let the flavors soak in.
3. Prepare to Roast:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with foil and set a wire rack on top. This will help the pork roast evenly and get a nice caramelized finish!
4. Arrange and Roast the Pork:
Take the marinated pork out of the fridge and remove it from the marinade. Set the pork strips on the wire rack, making sure to space them out a bit. Roast the pork in the oven for 20 minutes.
5. Baste and Finish Roasting:
After 20 minutes, baste the pork with some of the reserved marinade and turn the pieces over. Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and has a lovely caramelized look. For a shiny finish, brush a bit of honey on the pork during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve your beautiful BBQ pork with steamed rice and a side of vegetables. Enjoy every flavorful bite of your homemade Chinese BBQ Pork!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder and loin are ideal for their balance of flavor and tenderness, you can also use pork belly for a richer taste. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the cut.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Red Food Coloring?
Absolutely! The red food coloring is optional and only adds a traditional look. If you prefer to skip it, the BBQ pork will still be delicious and beautifully glazed without it.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a little water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Freeze the Pork After Marinating?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated pork before cooking. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for the best results. It’s a great way to prep ahead!
